How Utah’s Big Night Impacts Houston’s Race in the West

The Western Conference race tightened again after Utah knocked off Denver on December 22, 2025, and the ripple effects could be felt all the way in Houston. The matchup itself didn’t feature the Rockets, but the result adds fuel to a crowded playoff picture that Houston is fighting to climb in.

Utah came out swinging, pushing Denver off balance early and keeping control behind hot shooting and disciplined ball movement. Denver rallied late, as they often do, but Utah closed the door with poise in the final minutes. For Houston fans tracking every shift in Western Conference momentum, this one matters.

Why It Matters for Houston

The Rockets are in the thick of a competitive West, where a single win—or loss—by another team can move the standings overnight. Utah’s victory narrows the gap among the middle tier of contenders. If the Rockets want home-court advantage in the postseason, they’ll need help from around the league. Sunday’s result didn’t go against Houston, but it didn’t give them extra breathing room, either.

Denver’s stumble also shows that even top-tier teams are vulnerable during this grueling mid-season stretch. Houston plays both the Jazz and Nuggets multiple times before April, and every sign of inconsistency from Western rivals is a signal that the Rockets can climb faster with consistent execution.

What’s Next for the Rockets

Houston continues its push through a tough winter schedule. With the conference tightening, every game becomes a chance to gain ground. The Rockets coaching staff will likely pay close attention to how Utah disrupted Denver, especially as the team prepares for its own meetings with both squads.

As the season moves toward the All-Star break, the West looks more wide open than expected. And for Rockets fans, that’s good news—because Houston is very much in the chase.

This article is a summary of reporting by NBA.com. Read the full story here.